US20220408850A1 - Undergarment and methods of treating pain symptoms using same - Google Patents

Abstract

The present disclosure provides undergarments, kits including undergarments, and methods of using same to relieve pain, such as abdominal, vaginal, and/or perineal pain (e.g., perianal pain), using undergarments and kits including undergarments.

Description

PRIORITY CLAIM
• This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/828,421, filed Apr. 2, 2019, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/872,296, filed Jul. 10, 2019, the entire contents of each of which are incorporated herein by reference and relied upon.
BACKGROUND
• Pain in the abdominal region is often debilitating, and is difficult to relieve topically using heat- or cold-based topical therapies without significantly limiting mobility. While some wearable devices are available, they perform poorly, often completely failing to maintain an initial position of an included thermal pack with even the slightest movement by the wearer.
• A need persists for devices enabling localized thermal treatment of pain in the abdominal/pelvic area that do not significantly limit mobility of the user.
SUMMARY
• The present disclosure provides undergarments, kits including undergarments, and methods of using same to relieve pain, such as abdominal pain.
• In one embodiment, the present disclosure provides an undergarment comprising: a gusset for positioning adjacent to a crotch region of a user and having an anterior end and a posterior end substantially opposite the anterior end; a first front panel including a distal portion that overlaps with the anterior end of the gusset, and a proximal portion that extends up to an anterior pelvic edge; a second front panel including a distal portion that overlaps with the anterior pelvic edge of the first front panel, and a proximal portion that extends up to an anterior umbilical edge; and a rear panel including a distal portion that overlaps with the posterior end of the gusset, and a proximal portion that extends up to a posterior waist edge, wherein the first front panel and the second front panel form a pouch.
• In another embodiment, the present disclosure provides an undergarment comprising: a wrap-around panel including a right rear portion, a left rear portion, a front portion disposed between the right rear portion and the left rear portion, and a gusset portion extending from the front portion; an anterior umbilical edge at one end of the right rear portion, the left rear portion, and the front portion; a posterior distal edge disposed substantially opposite the anterior umbilical edge and at a second end of the left rear portion and/or a second end of the rear portion; a pouch opening disposed in the front portion; an inner panel adjacent to the right rear portion, the left rear portion, and the front portion; and a pouch cavity disposed between (i) the inner panel and (ii) the right rear portion, the left rear portion, and the front portion.
• In another embodiment, the present disclosure provides a kit comprising an undergarment as disclosed herein and at least one thermal pack for inserting into the pouch or pouch cavity of the undergarment.
• In another embodiment, the present disclosure provides a method of reducing abdominal pain in a subject, the method comprising: providing an undergarment as disclosed herein; positioning the undergarment about the abdominal area of the subject; inserting a thermal pack into the pouch or pouch cavity to a position adjacent to a pain locus; and leaving the thermal pack in the position for a period of time to reduce the abdominal pain.
• In another embodiment, the present disclosure provides a method of treating perineal pain (e.g., perianal pain) in a subject, the method comprising: providing an undergarment as disclosed herein; positioning the undergarment about the abdominal area of the subject; inserting a thermal pack into the pouch cavity to a position adjacent to a pain locus; and leaving the thermal pack in the position for a period of time to reduce the perineal pain (e.g., perianal pain), wherein the pain locus is associated with a perineal area (e.g., perianal area) of the subject.
• These and other embodiments are described in greater detail below.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
• FIG.1 shows a front perspective view of an undergarment according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.
• FIG.2 shows a front perspective of the undergarment ofFIG.1.
• FIG.3 shows a front perspective view of the undergarment ofFIGS.1-2 including a thermal pack inserting into the undergarment's pouch.
• FIG.4 shows a rear perspective view of the undergarment ofFIGS.1-3.
• FIG.5 shows a perspective view of a gusset portion of an undergarment of the prior art.
• FIG.6 shows a perspective view of a gusset portion of an undergarment according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.
• FIG.7 shows a perspective front view of an undergarment according to one embodiment of the present disclosure in use by a subject.
• FIG.8 shows a perspective front view of an undergarment according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.
• FIG.9 shows a rear perspective view of the undergarment ofFIG.8.
• FIG.10 shows a plan view of a fabric pattern for forming the undergarment ofFIGS.8-9.
• FIG.11 shows a perspective view of a folded fabric piece for forming the undergarment ofFIGS.8-9.
• FIG.12A shows a front perspective view of an undergarment consistent with one embodiment of the present disclosure.
• FIG.12B shows a front perspective view of an undergarment consistent with another embodiment of the present disclosure.
• FIG.13 shows a front perspective view of an undergarment consistent with one embodiment of the present disclosure wherein the proximal edge has been folded downwards toward the distal end of the undergarment.
• FIG.14 shows a rear perspective view of an undergarment consistent with one embodiment of the present disclosure.
• FIGS.15A-15B show photographs of an undergarment consistent with one embodiment of the present disclosure from the front (FIG.15A) and the rear (FIG.15B).
• FIGS.16A-16C show photographs of an undergarment consistent with another embodiment of the present disclosure from the front (FIGS.16A-16B) and rear (FIG.16C).
• FIGS.17A-17D show photographs of an undergarment consistent with another embodiment of the present disclosure from the front (FIGS.17A-17C) and rear (FIG.17D).
• FIGS.18A-18C show photographs of an undergarment consistent with another embodiment of the present disclosure from the front (FIGS.18A-18B) and rear (FIG.18C).
• FIG.19A shows a front plan view of an undergarment consistent with another embodiment of the present disclosure.
• FIG.19B shows a rear plan view of the undergarment ofFIG.19A.
• The figures depict various embodiments of this disclosure for purposes of illustration only. One skilled in the art will readily recognize from the following discussion that alternative embodiments of the structures and methods illustrated herein may be employed without departing from the principles of embodiments described herein.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
• Referring generally toFIGS.1-18C, the present disclosure provides undergarments, kits including undergarments, and methods of using same to relieve pain, such as abdominal pain.
• Referring now specifically toFIGS.1-6, an undergarment consistent with one embodiment of the present disclosure comprises a firstfront panel200, and a secondfront panel100, a thirdfront panel300, arear panel500, and a gusset bridging the firstfront panel200 and therear panel500.
• The firstfront panel200 includes aproximal portion205 and adistal portion230 substantially opposite theproximal portion205. The distal portion2:30 connects with thedistal portion530 of therear panel500, described in greater detail below. In use, thefirst front panel200 covers an anterior portion of the user's torso, such as a sub-umbilical anterior portion of the user's pelvic area.
• Secondfront panel100 includes aproximal portion105 that terminates in an anteriorumbilical edge108, and adistal portion130 substantially opposite theproximal portion105. In use, thesecond front panel100 covers an anterior portion of the user's torso, such as an umbilical anterior portion of the user's torso.
• The thirdfront panel300 is disposed between the user torso and the first and secondfront panels200,100, and Is disposed at thedistal portion130 of the second front panel and theproximal portion205 of the firstfront panel200. In some embodiments, the thirdfront panel300 includes a distal portion that is continuous with thegusset600. In other embodiments, the third front panel includes a distal portion that terminates separately from theanterior end610 of thegusset600. In use, thefront panel300 covers an anterior portion of the users torso at least between the anterior umbilical region of the user's torso and the pelvic region of the user's torso.
• As shown inFIGS.2 and3, theundergarment10 includes apouch350 formed by the thirdfront panel300 and the overlappingdistal portion130 of the secondfront panel100 and theproximal portion205 of the firstfront panel200. In some embodiments, thedistal portion130 of the secondfront panel100 extends over theproximal portion205 of the firstfront panel200. In other embodiments, theproximal portion205 of the firstfront panel200 extends over thedistal portion130 of the secondfront panel100. Thepouch350 is sized to accommodate athermal pack400, as shown inFIG.3.
• Referring now specifically toFIG.4, therear panel500 includes aproximal portion505 that terminates in aposterior waist edge508, and adistal portion530 substantially opposite theproximal portion505. In use, therear panel500 covers a posterior portion of the user's torso including, for example, the posterior lower back region and buttocks of the user. In some embodiments, the firstfront panel200 and therear panel500 are continuous, that is, without a seam between the firstfront panel200 and therear panel500. In some embodiments, the secondfront panel100 and therear panel500 are continuous, that is, without a seam between the secondfront panel100 and therear panel500. The firstfront panel200 and therear panel500 together include two voids to accommodate legs of the user. For example, the firstfront panel200 and therear panel500 includes aright leg hole210 and aleft leg hole220 to accommodate the right leg RL and the left leg LL of the user, respectively, as shown inFIG.7.
• Referring now toFIG.6, thegusset600 includes ananterior end610 and a posterior and620 substantially opposite the anterior and610. In contrast togusset structures600′ of the prior art Which have at least oneend620′ secured to therear panel500′ or thefront panel200′, such as those shown inFIG.5, thegusset600 ofundergarment10 forms a tubular structure with thedistal portion530 of therear panel500 and with thedistal portion230 of the firstfront panel200. Thegusset600 may have a minimum width dimension W of at least about 2 inches, such as at least about 2 inches, at least about 2.5 inches, or at least about 3 inches. In some embodiments, theanterior end610 is partially stitched to the firstfront panel200. In other embodiments, theanterior end610 of thegusset600 is not stitched to the firstfront panel200.
• In some embodiments theposterior end620 of thegusset600 is partially stitched to therear panel500. In other embodiments theposterior end620 of thegusset600 is not stitched to therear panel500. In use, thegusset600 is positioned adjacent to a crotch region of the user, and may accommodate a thermal pack in the tubular passageway between thegusset600 and the firstfront panel100/rear panel500.
• Theundergarment10 may be made of any suitable material. For example and without limitation, theundergarment10 may be formed of a polyester, a rayon, a cotton, a nylon, or a combination of any of the foregoing. In some embodiments, theundergarment10 comprises, consists essentially of, or consists of polyester. In some embodiments, theundergarment10 comprises, consists essentially of, or consists of bamboo, polyester jersey, cotton organic, charcoal fibers, charcoal coating, silk, nylon, acrylic, rayon, hemp, soy, acetate, modacrylic fibers, vinylon fibers, polypropylene fibers, polyurethane fibers, polyvinyl chloride fibers, polyethylene fibers, vinylidene fiber, polychlal fibers, benzoate fibers, aramid fibers, sisal, manilla, pina, cellulose, and/or cuprammonium rayon. In some embodiments, theundergarment10 comprises, consists essentially of, or consists of a blend of polyester and spandex. In some embodiments, theundergarment10 consists essentially of a blend of polyester and spandex in a ratio of about 80:20 to about 95:5. In some embodiments, theundergarment10 consists essentially of a blend of polyester and spandex in a ratio of about 88:12. In some embodiments, theundergarment10 consists essentially of or consists of recycled polyester (50-95%) and elastane (e.g., Spandex or Lycra) (50-5%). In some embodiments, theundergarment10 consists essentially of or consists of polyester (50-95%) and elastane (e.g., Spandex or Lycra) (50-5%). In some embodiments, theundergarment10 consists essentially of or consists of polyester (50-95%) and elastane (e.g., Spandex or Lycra) (50-5%). In some embodiments, theundergarment10 consists essentially of or consists of cotton (50-95%) and elastane (e.g., Spandex or Lycra) (50-5%). In some embodiments, theundergarment10 consists essentially of or consists of cotton (10-100%), bamboo (10-100%), and elastane (e.g., Spandex or Lycra) (1-50%). In some embodiments, theundergarment10 consists essentially of or consists of lyocell (e.g., Tencel) (50-100%) and elastane (e.g., Spandex or Lycra) (50-0%). In some embodiments, theundergarment10 consists essentially of or consists of bamboo (50-95%) and elastane (e.g., Spandex or Lycra) (50-5%). In some embodiments, theundergarment10 consists essentially of or consists of wool (10-100%), cotton (10-100%), and elastane (e.g., Spandex or Lycra) (1-50%). In some embodiments, theundergarment10 consists essentially of or consists of nylon (50-95%) and elastane (e.g., Spandex or Lycra) (50-5%). In some embodiments, theundergarment10 consists essentially of or consists of acrylic (50-95%) and elastane (e.g., Spandex or Lycra) (50-5%). In some embodiments, theundergarment10 consists essentially of or consists of rayon (50-95%) and elastane (e.g., Spandex or Lycra) (50-5%). In some embodiments, theundergarment10 consists essentially of or consists of hemp (50-95%) and elastane (e.g., Spandex or Lycra) (50-5%). In some embodiments, theundergarment10 consists essentially of or consists of cotton (10-100%), hemp (10-100%), elastane (e.g., Spandex or Lycra) (1-50%).
• In some embodiments, the present disclosure provides anundergarment10 comprising: agusset600 for positioning adjacent to a crotch region of a user and having ananterior end610 and aposterior end620 substantially opposite theanterior end610; a firstfront panel200 including adistal portion230 that overlaps with theanterior end610 of thegusset600, and aproximal portion205 that extends up to an anteriorpelvic edge208; a secondfront panel100 including adistal portion130 that overlaps with the anteriorpelvic edge208 of the firstfront panel200, and aproximal portion105 that extends up to an anteriorumbilical edge108; and arear panel500 including adistal portion530 that overlaps with theposterior end620 of thegusset600, and aproximal portion505 that extends up to aposterior waist edge508, wherein the firstfront panel200 and the secondfront panel100 form apouch350. In some embodiments, theundergarment10 further comprises a substantially open tube formed between thegusset600, the firstdistal portion230 of the firstfront panel100, and thedistal portion530 of therear panel500. In some embodiments, the gusset has a minimum width of not less than about 3 inches. In some embodiments, the second front panel extends over the proximal portion of the first front panel. In some embodiments, the first front panel extends over the distal portion of the second front panel. In some embodiments, the gusset has a minimum width W of at least about 2 inches. In some embodiments, the gusset has a minimum width W of at least about 2.5 inches. In some embodiments, the gusset has a minimum width W of at least about 3 inches. In some embodiments, theundergarment10 further comprises a thirdfront panel300 disposed between the secondfront panel100 and a user when theundergarment10 is in use by the user. In some embodiments, the undergarment is seamless.
• Referring now toFIGS.8-14, anundergarment20 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure comprises a unitary piece of material including afront portion2000, arear portion5000A-5000B, agusset portion6000 bridging thefront portion2000 and therear portion5000A-5000B, and apouch cavity3500 formed between anouter panel layer2500A and aninner panel layer2500B.
• Thefront portion2000 includes aproximal edge2300 and apouch opening3550 distal to theproximal edge2300 and formed in theouter panel surface2500A. Thefront portion2000 includes anouter panel layer2500A and aninner panel layer2500B formed for example, by folding a single piece of material alongfold line2300 as shown inFIGS.10-11 and joining edges of the folded piece together. The shape of thepouch cavity3500 may therefore be defined by the shapes of theouter panel layer2500A and theinner panel layer2500B and may, for example, include a gusset pouch portion between anouter gusset layer6000A and aninner gusset layer6000B.
• Thepouch cavity3500 may include apouch opening3550 formed in theouter panel layer2500A. In other embodiments, thepouch opening3550 is formed in theinner panel layer2500B. In either embodiment, thepouch opening3550 may be surrounded or partly surrounded bypouch opening stitching3700 to prevent the material from fraying at thepouch opening3550. In other embodiments, thepouch opening3550 may be thermally sealed to prevent fraying. In some embodiments, such as those consistent with the embodiment specifically shown inFIG.8, thepouch opening3550 is horizontal or substantially horizontal (e.g., is parallel or substantially parallel with the proximal edge2300). In other embodiments, thepouch opening3550 is vertical or substantially vertical (e.g., is perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the proximal edge2300).
• As shown inFIG.9, the unitary piece of material may be formed into theundergarment20 by joining a rightrear portion edge2400A to a leftrear portion edge2400B with arear seam5100, and by joining thegusset edge6200 to thedistal edge5200A/5200B of the leftrear portion5000B and/or the rightrear portion5000A with agusset seam5150. In the embodiment shown inFIG.9, therear seam5100 divides the rightrear portion5000A and the leftrear portion5000B substantially evenly, Although in other embodiments therear seam5100 maybe offset from the midline of theundergarment20. Thus, in the embodiment shown inFIG.9, thegusset seam5150 Joins thegusset edge6200 to both the left posteriordistal edge5200B of the leftrear portion5000B and the right posteriordistal edge5200A to the rightrear portion5000A.
• Once formed, theundergarment20 includes aright leg hole2100 and aleft leg hole2200 for accommodating a right leg RL and a left leg LL of a user. Theright leg hole2100 is surrounded or partially surrounded by rightleg hole stitching2600 to prevent a thermal pack from exiting thepouch cavity3500. Theleft leg hole2200 is surrounded or partially surrounded by leftleg hole stitching2700 to prevent a thermal pack from exiting thepouch cavity3500.
• In some embodiments, the present disclosure provides anundergarment20 comprising: a wrap-around panel including a rightrear portion5000A, a leftrear portion5000B, afront portion2000 disposed between the rightrear portion5000A and the leftrear portion5000B, and agusset portion6000 extending from thefront portion2000; anproximal edge2300 at one end of the rightrear portion5000A, the leftrear portion5000B, and thefront portion2000; a posteriordistal edge5200A/5200B disposed substantially opposite theproximal edge2300 and at a second end of the leftrear portion5000B and/or a second end of therear portion5000A; apouch opening3550 disposed in thefront portion2000; aninner panel2500B adjacent to the rightrear portion5000A, the leftrear portion5000B, and thefront portion2000; and apouch cavity3500 disposed between (i) theinner panel2500B and (ii) the rightrear portion5000A, the leftrear portion5000B, and thefront portion2000. In some embodiments, thegusset portion6000 comprises agusset edge6200 substantially opposite theproximal edge2300 and adjacent the posteriordistal edge5200A/5200B. In some embodiments, the leftrear portion5000B comprises a leftrear portion edge2400B, and wherein the rightrear portion5000A comprises a rightrear portion edge2400A that is adjacent to the leftrear portion edge2400B. In some embodiments, the posteriordistal edge5200A/5200B comprises: a left posteriordistal edge5200B at a second edge of the leftrear portion5000B that is substantially opposite theproximal edge2300; and a right posteriordistal edge5200A at a second edge of the rightrear portion5000A that is substantially opposite theproximal edge2300. In some embodiments, thegusset portion6000 has a minimum width W of about 2 inches. In some embodiments, thegusset portion6000 has a minimum width W of about 2.5 inches. In some embodiments, thegusset portion6000 has a minimum width W of about 3 inches. In some embodiments, the leftrear portion5000B, thefront portion2000, the rightrear portion5000A, and thegusset portion6000 are formed from a unitary piece of material. In some embodiments, the leftrear portion5000B, thefront portion2000, the rightrear portion5000A, thegusset portion6000, and theinner panel2500B are formed from a unitary piece of material.
• As shown inFIG.13, theproximal edge2300 may be folded down towards the distal portion of theundergarment20. In this configuration, thepouch cavity3500 may be limited in size and location such that an included thermal pack will not rise above a desired location of the user's abdominal area, and/or such that theproximal edge2300 is not visible above a waist line of an outer garment worn by the user.
• Referring now toFIGS.15A-15B, an undergarment consistent with one embodiment of the present invention includes apouch cavity3500 in anouter panel layer2500A. Thepouch cavity3500 includes apouch opening3550 and optionallypouch opening stitching3700 surrounding thepouch opening3550. The undergarment may include a rightrear portion5000A, a leftrear panel portion5000B, arear seam5100, a rightposterior gusset seam5200A, and a leftposterior gusset seam5200B consistent with the embodiment described above with respect toFIG.9.
• Referring now toFIGS.16A-16C, an undergarment consistent with one embodiment of the present invention includes apouch cavity3500 in anouter panel layer2500A. Thepouch cavity3500 includes apouch opening3550 and optionallypouch opening stitching3700 surrounding thepouch opening3550. The undergarment may include a rightrear portion5000A, a leftrear panel portion5000B, arear seam5100, a rightposterior gusset seam5200A, and a leftposterior gusset seam5200B consistent with the embodiment described above with respect toFIG.9.
• Referring now toFIGS.17A-17D, an undergarment consistent with one embodiment of the present invention includes apouch cavity3500 in anouter panel layer2500A. Thepouch cavity3500 includes apouch opening3550 and optionallypouch opening stitching3700 surrounding thepouch opening3550. Theinner panel layer2500B may form a second layer of thepouch cavity3500. Rightleg hole stitching2600 and leftleg hole stitching2700 may surround the right leg hole and the left leg hole, respectively. The undergarment may include arear panel5000 that is joined to theouter panel layer2500A by a right seam5100A and a left seam5100B, and to thegusset portion6000 by agusset seam5150.
• As shown inFIGS.18A-18C, theproximal edge2300 of any undergarment disclosed herein may be folded down towards the distal portion of theundergarment20. In this configuration, thepouch cavity3500 may be limited in size and location such that an included thermal pack will not rise above a desired location of the user's abdominal area, and/or such that theproximal edge2300 is not visible above a waist line of an outer garment worn by the user.
• Theundergarment20 may be made of any suitable material. For example and without limitation, theundergarment20 may be formed of a polyester, a rayon, a cotton, a nylon, or a combination of any of the foregoing. In some embodiments, theundergarment20 comprises, consists essentially of, or consists of bamboo, polyester jersey, cotton organic, charcoal fibers, charcoal coating, silk, nylon, acrylic, rayon, hemp, soy, acetate, modacrylic fibers, vinylon fibers, polypropylene fibers, polyurethane fibers, polyvinyl chloride fibers, polyethylene fibers, vinylidene fiber, polychlal fibers, benzoate fibers, aramid fibers, sisal, manilla, pina, cellulose, and/or cuprammonium rayon. In some embodiments, theundergarment20 comprises, consists essentially of, or consists of polyester. In some embodiments, theundergarment20 comprises, consists essentially of, or consists of a blend of polyester and spandex. In some embodiments, theundergarment20 consists essentially of a blend of polyester and spandex in a ratio of about 80:20 to about 95:5. In some embodiments, theundergarment20 consists essentially of a blend of polyester and spandex in a ratio of about 88:12. In some embodiments, theundergarment20 consists essentially of or consists of recycled polyester (50-95%) and elastane (e.g., Spandex or Lycra) (50-5%). In some embodiments, theundergarment20 consists essentially of or consists of polyester (50-95%) and elastane (e.g., Spandex or Lycra) (50-5%). In some embodiments, theundergarment20 consists essentially of or consists of polyester (50-95%) and elastane (e.g., Spandex or Lycra) (50-5%). In some embodiments, theundergarment20 consists essentially of or consists of cotton (50-95%) and elastane (e.g., Spandex or Lycra) (50-5%). In some embodiments, theundergarment20 consists essentially of or consists of cotton (10-100%), bamboo (10-100%), and elastane (e.g., Spandex or Lycra) (1-50%). In some embodiments, theundergarment20 consists essentially of or consists of lyocell (e.g., Tencel) (50-100%) and elastane (e.g., Spandex or Lycra) (50-0%). In some embodiments, theundergarment20 consists essentially of or consists of bamboo (50-95%) and elastane (e.g., Spandex or Lycra) (50-5%). In some embodiments, theundergarment20 consists essentially of or consists of wool (10-100%), cotton (10-100%), and elastane (e.g., Spandex or Lycra) (1-50%). In some embodiments, theundergarment20 consists essentially of or consists of nylon (50-95%) and elastane (e.g., Spandex or Lycra) (50-5%). In some embodiments, theundergarment20 consists essentially of or consists of acrylic (50-95%) and elastane (e.g., Spandex or Lycra) (50-5%). In some embodiments, theundergarment20 consists essentially of or consists of rayon (50-95%) and elastane (e.g., Spandex or Lycra) (50-5%). In some embodiments, theundergarment20 consists essentially of or consists of hemp (50-95%) and elastane (e.g., Spandex or Lycra) (50-5%). In some embodiments, theundergarment20 consists essentially of or consists of cotton (10-100%), hemp (10-100%), elastane (e.g., Spandex or Lycra) (1-50%).
• Referring now toFIGS.19A-19B, anundergarment30 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure comprises acentral portion31 flanked by aleft hip panel32 and aright hip panel33. Thecentral portion31 includes anexternal layer31A and aninternal layer31B that, together, form an internal pouch. The internal pouch may extend at least partially through (e.g., partially through or fully through) thecrotch portion31C of thecentral portion31 Thecentral portion31 further includes apouch opening35 that may be disposed on theexternal layer31A or theinternal layer31B, and may be disposed on the front of theundergarment30, on the back of theundergarment30, or both. Thepouch opening35 may be disposed horizontally or substantially horizontally in some embodiments. In other embodiments, thepouch opening35 is disposed vertically or substantially vertically.
• Thecentral portion31 may be made of any suitable material. For example and without limitation, thecentral portion31 may be formed of a polyester, a rayon, a cotton, a nylon, or a combination of any of the foregoing. In some embodiments, thecentral portion31 comprises, consists essentially of, or consists of bamboo, polyester jersey, cotton organic, charcoal fibers, charcoal coating, silk, nylon, acrylic, rayon, hemp, soy, acetate, modacrylic fibers, vinylon fibers, polypropylene fibers, polyurethane fibers, polyvinyl chloride fibers, polyethylene fibers, vinylidene fiber, polychlal fibers, benzoate fibers, aramid fibers, sisal, manilla, pina, cellulose, and/or cuprammonium rayon. In some embodiments, thecentral portion31 comprises, consists essentially of, or consists of polyester. In some embodiments, thecentral portion31 comprises, consists essentially of, or consists of a blend of polyester and spandex. In some embodiments, thecentral portion31 consists essentially of a blend of polyester and spandex in a ratio of about 80:20 to about 95:5. In some embodiments, thecentral portion31 consists essentially of a blend of polyester and spandex in a ratio of about 88:12. In some embodiments, thecentral portion31 consists essentially of or consists of recycled polyester (50-95%) and elastane (e.g., Spandex or Lycra) (50-5%). In some embodiments, thecentral portion31 consists essentially of or consists of polyester (50-95%) and elastane (e.g., Spandex or Lycra) (50-5%). In some embodiments, thecentral portion31 consists essentially of or consists of polyester (50-95%) and elastane (e.g., Spandex or Lycra) (50-5%). In some embodiments, thecentral portion31 consists essentially of or consists of cotton (50-95%) and elastane (e.g., Spandex or Lycra) (50-5%). In some embodiments, thecentral portion31 consists essentially of or consists of cotton (10-100%), bamboo (10-100%), and elastane (e.g., Spandex or Lycra) (1-50%). In some embodiments, thecentral portion31 consists essentially of or consists of lyocell (e.g., Tencel) (50-100%) and elastane (e.g., Spandex or Lycra) (50-0%). In some embodiments, thecentral portion31 consists essentially of or consists of bamboo (50-95%) and elastane (e.g., Spandex or Lycra) (50-5%). In some embodiments, thecentral portion31 consists essentially of or consists of wool (10-100%), cotton (10-100%), and elastane (e.g., Spandex or Lycra) (1-50%). In some embodiments, thecentral portion31 consists essentially of or consists of nylon (50-95%) and elastane (e.g., Spandex or Lycra) (50-5%). In some embodiments, thecentral portion31 consists essentially of or consists of acrylic (50-95%) and elastane (e.g., Spandex or Lycra) (50-5%). In some embodiments, thecentral portion31 consists essentially of or consists of rayon (50-95%) and elastane (e.g., Spandex or Lycra) (50-5%). In some embodiments, thecentral portion31 consists essentially of or consists of hemp (50-95%) and elastane (e.g., Spandex or Lycra) (50-5%). In some embodiments, thecentral portion31 consists essentially of or consists of cotton (10-100%), hemp (10-100%), elastane (e.g., Spandex or Lycra) (1-50%).
• Theleft hip panel32 and theright hip panel33 may be formed of any suitable material, preferably a material that stretches at least laterally to provide tension forces to the edges of theleft hip panel32 and theright hip panel33. In some embodiments, theleft hip panel32 and theright hip panel33 are formed of the same material as thecentral portion31. In other embodiments, theleft hip panel32 and theright hip panel33 are formed of a different material than thecentral portion31. In some embodiments, theleft hip panel32 and theright hip panel33 may be formed of a polyester, a rayon, a cotton, a nylon, or a combination of any of the foregoing. In some embodiments, theleft hip panel32 and theright hip panel33 comprises, consists essentially of, or consists of bamboo, polyester jersey, cotton organic, charcoal fibers, charcoal coating, silk, nylon, acrylic, rayon, hemp, soy, acetate, modacrylic fibers, vinylon fibers, polypropylene fibers, polyurethane fibers, polyvinyl chloride fibers, polyethylene fibers, vinylidene fiber, polychlal fibers, benzoate fibers, aramid fibers, sisal, manilla, pina, cellulose, and/or cuprammonium rayon. In some embodiments, theleft hip panel32 and theright hip panel33 comprises, consists essentially of, or consists of polyester. In some embodiments, theleft hip panel32 and theright hip panel33 comprises, consists essentially of, or consists of a blend of polyester and spandex. In some embodiments, theleft hip panel32 and theright hip panel33 consists essentially of a blend of polyester and spandex in a ratio of about 80:20 to about 95:5. In some embodiments, theleft hip panel32 and theright hip panel33 consists essentially of a blend of polyester and spandex in a ratio of about 88:12. In some embodiments, theleft hip panel32 and theright hip panel33 consist essentially of or consist of recycled polyester (50-95%) and elastane (e.g., Spandex or Lycra) (50-5%). In some embodiments, theleft hip panel32 and theright hip panel33 consist essentially of or consist of polyester (50-95%) and elastane (e.g., Spandex or Lycra) (50-5%). In some embodiments, theleft hip panel32 and theright hip panel33 consist essentially of or consist of polyester (50-95%) and elastane (e.g., Spandex or Lycra) (50-5%). In some embodiments, theleft hip panel32 and theright hip panel33 consist essentially of or consist of cotton (50-95%) and elastane (e.g., Spandex or Lycra) (50-5%). In some embodiments, theleft hip panel32 and theright hip panel33 consist essentially of or consist of cotton (10-100%), bamboo (10-100%), and elastane (e.g., Spandex or Lycra) (1-50%). In some embodiments, theleft hip panel32 and theright hip panel33 consist essentially of or consist of lyocell (e.g., Tencel) (50-100%) and elastane (e.g., Spandex or Lycra) (50-0%). In some embodiments, theleft hip panel32 and theright hip panel33 consist essentially of or consist of bamboo (50-95%) and elastane (e.g., Spandex or Lycra) (50-5%). In some embodiments, theleft hip panel32 and theright hip panel33 consist essentially of or consist of wool (10-100%), cotton (10-100%), and elastane (e.g., Spandex or Lycra) (1-50%). In some embodiments, theleft hip panel32 and theright hip panel33 consist essentially of or consist of nylon (50-95%) and elastane (e.g., Spandex or Lycra) (50-5%). In some embodiments, theleft hip panel32 and theright hip panel33 consist essentially of or consist of acrylic (50-95%) and elastane (e.g., Spandex or Lycra) (50-5%). In some embodiments, theleft hip panel32 and theright hip panel33 consist essentially of or consist of rayon (50-95%) and elastane (e.g., Spandex or Lycra) (50-5%). In some embodiments, theleft hip panel32 and theright hip panel33 consist essentially of or consist of hemp (50-95%) and elastane (e.g., Spandex or Lycra) (50-5%). In some embodiments, theleft hip panel32 and theright hip panel33 consist essentially of or consist of cotton (10-100%), hemp (10-100%), elastane (e.g., Spandex or Lycra) (1-50%).
• The present disclosure provides kits comprising an undergarment as disclosed herein and at least one thermal pack for inserting into the pouch of the undergarment. In some embodiments, the thermal pack is a cooling pack. In some embodiments, the thermal pack is a heating pack. In some embodiments, the kit includes at least one cooling pack and at least one heating pack. The thermal packs may be single-use or multiple-use heating packs or cooling packs. In some embodiments, the undergarment is washable and may be used more than once. In other embodiments, the undergarment is intended for only a single-use and may be discarded after that use.
• Undergarments and kits including undergarments consistent with the present disclosure are useful for reducing abdominal pain. In general, and with reference toFIG.7, a method of reducing abdominal pain includes positioning anundergarment10/20 of the present disclosure about the lower torso/pelvic area T of a subject, inserting a thermal pack into thepouch350 or thepouch cavity3500 of the undergarment, and leaving the thermal pack in thepouch350 or thepouch cavity3500 for a period of time to reduce the abdominal pain.
• The thermal pack may be a heating pack or a cooling pack, and the thermal pack may be intended for single use or multiple uses.
• The thermal pack is inserted into thepouch350/pouch cavity3500 and positioned within thepouch350/pouch cavity3500 to be adjacent to a pain locus experienced by the subject. The pain locus may be associated with an abdominal area of the subject, with a vaginal area of the subject, and/or with a perineal area (e.g., perianal area) of the subject. Tension applied to the thermal pack by the firstfront panel200 and secondfront panel100, or by theouter panel layer2500A, draws the thermal pack towards the subject. At the same time, the thirdfront panel300 or theinner panel layer2500B prevents the thermal pack from making direct contact with skin of the subject, preventing injury or discomfort to the subject's skin such as burns, irritation, or frostbite. The tension from the firstfront panel200 and secondfront panel100, or from the outer panel layer250A, also effectively Preserves the position of the thermal pack relative to the subject's anatomy, even when the subject moves (e.g., shifts position, walks, bends over, etc.).
• Any pain experienced by a subject between the umbilical area and the perineal area (e.g., perianal area), in the abdominal area, and/or in the lower back area may be reduced by undergarments and thermal packs disclosed herein. For example, undergarments and thermal packs consistent with the present disclosure may be used to reduce pain caused by child birth, a cesarean section procedure, an appendectomy procedure, a vasectomy procedure, a hernia repair procedure, an episiotomy correction procedure, a pelvic organ prolapse (“POP”) repair procedure, a stress urinary incontinence (“SUI”) repair procedure, a gynecological procedure (e.g., a hysterectomy procedure, an adhesiolysis procedure, a cervical biopsy procedure, a colporrhaphy procedure, a colposcopy procedure, a dilation and curettage (“D&C”) procedure, an endometrial ablation procedure, an endometrial biopsy procedure, a uterine biopsy procedure, a fluid-contrast ultrasound (“FCUS”) procedure, a hysterosalpingography procedure, a hysteroscopy procedure, a myomectomy procedure, an oophorectomy procedure, a pelvic ultrasound procedure, a pelviscopy (pelvic laparoscopy) procedure, a selective salpingography procedure, a uterine suspension procedure, a vaginal vault suspension procedure, a toluidine blue dye test procedure, a trachelectomy procedure, a tubal ligation procedure, a uterine fibroid embolization (“UFE”) procedure, or a vulvectomy procedure), a hemorrhoid or a hemorrhoid correction procedure, a cancer, a sexually transmitted infection, an anal fissure, a muscle spasm (e.g., proctalgia fugax and/or levator syndrome), an anal fistula, a perianal hematoma, a rectal ulcer (e.g., solitary rectal ulcer syndrome), a thrombosis (e.g., a thrombosis hemorrhoid), tenesmus, inflammatory bowel disease, proctitis, a perineal, perianal or perirectal abscess, fecal impaction, rectal prolapse, abdominal pain, labial pain, perineal pain, pain resulting from fertility treatments (e.g., injection site pain, bloating, sensitivity), Bartholinitis, post-surgical pains (e.g., pain resulting from hysterectomy, pain resulting from Bartholin marsupialization, or pain resulting from vaginal tightening due to, e.g., vaginoplasty, perineoplasty, labia majora plasty, labiaplasty, hymenoplasty, or vulvar lipoplasty), pain related to endometriosis, plastic surgeries, post-D&C procedure, post-harvesting of eggs for freezing, lower back pain, hemorrhoids, gender reassignment surgeries, yeast infections, pain from Bartholin cyst, marsupialization of Bartholin cyst, surgical drainage of Bartholin cyst, pain and itching related to menopause, pain and itching related to vulvar cancer, pain associated with sex, pain and itching associated with sexually transmitted disease, vaginosis, pain and abdominal swelling associated with menstrual cycles, bladder inflammation, interstitial cystitis, cystitis, pain related to urinary tract infections, pelvic inflammatory disease, pain and/or abdominal swelling related to pelvic or abdominal adhesions, pain and/or abdominal swelling related to ovarian cysts, pain and/or abdominal swelling related to uterine fibroids, pain and/or abdominal swelling related to tumors, pain and/or abdominal swelling related to kidney stones, pain and/or abdominal swelling related to PMS, pain and/or abdominal swelling related to vulvodynia, and/or pain and/or abdominal swelling related to adenomyosis.
Example
• Anundergarment20 was prepared according to the method illustrated inFIGS.8-11 from a unitary piece of fabric consisting of 88% polyester and 12% spandex, and having a weight value of 280 GSM (Alpha Soft Max-Dri Performance Jersey, Mood Fabrics, Carlstadt, N.J.). Thepouch opening3550 was surrounded by a zig-zag stitch3700 using T-60 spunpoly 100% polyester thread. Theright leg hole2100 and theleft leg hole2200 were each surrounded by aflat stitch2600/2700 using T-60 spunpoly 100% polyester thread. The resultingundergarment20 is shown inFIGS.15-18C.

Claims (19)

1. An undergarment comprising:

a gusset for positioning adjacent to a crotch region of a user and having an anterior end and a posterior end substantially opposite the anterior end;

a first front panel including a distal portion that overlaps with the anterior end of the gusset, and a proximal portion that extends up to an anterior pelvic edge;

a second front panel including a distal portion that overlaps with the anterior pelvic edge of the first front panel, and a proximal portion that extends up to an anterior umbilical edge; and

a rear panel including a distal portion that overlaps with the posterior end of the gusset, and a proximal portion that extends up to a posterior waist edge, wherein the first front panel and the second front panel form a pouch.

2. The undergarment ofclaim 1 further comprising a substantially open tube formed between the gusset, the first distal portion of the first front panel, and the distal portion of the rear panel.

3. The undergarment ofclaim 1, wherein the gusset has a minimum width of not less than about 3 inches.

4. The undergarment ofclaim 1, wherein the second front panel extends over the proximal portion of the first front panel.

5. The undergarment ofclaim 1, wherein the first front panel extends over the distal portion of the second front panel.

6. The undergarment ofclaim 1, wherein the gusset has a minimum width of at least about 2 inches.

7. The undergarment ofclaim 1 further comprising a third front panel disposed between the second front panel and a user, when the undergarment is in use by the user.

8. The undergarment ofclaim 1, wherein the undergarment is seamless.

9. A kit comprising:

an undergarment ofclaim 1; and

at least one thermal pack for inserting into the pouch of the undergarment.

10. The kit ofclaim 9, wherein the thermal pack is a cooling pack.

11. The kit ofclaim 9, wherein the thermal pack is a heating pack.

12. A method of reducing pain in a subject, the method comprising:

providing an undergarment ofclaim 1 to the subject;

positioning the undergarment about the abdominal area of the subject;

inserting a thermal pack into the pouch to a position adjacent to a pain locus; and

leaving the thermal pack in the position for a period of time to reduce the pain.

13. The method ofclaim 12, wherein the pain is selected from the group consisting of: pain caused by child birth, a cesarean section procedure, an appendectomy procedure, a vasectomy procedure, a hernia repair procedure, an episiotomy correction procedure, a pelvic organ prolapse (“POP”) repair procedure, a stress urinary incontinence (“SUI”) repair procedure, a gynecological procedure (e.g., a hysterectomy procedure, an adhesiolysis procedure, a cervical biopsy procedure, a colporrhaphy procedure, a colposcopy procedure, a dilation and curettage (“D&C”) procedure, an endometrial ablation procedure, an endometrial biopsy procedure, a uterine biopsy procedure, a fluid-contrast ultrasound (“FCUS”) procedure, a hysterosalpingography procedure, a hysteroscopy procedure, a myomectomy procedure, an oophorectomy procedure, a pelvic ultrasound procedure, a pelviscopy (pelvic laparoscopy) procedure, a selective salpingography procedure, a uterine suspension procedure, a vaginal vault suspension procedure, a toluidine blue dye test procedure, a trachelectomy procedure, a tubal ligation procedure, a uterine fibroid embolization (“UFE”) procedure, or a vulvectomy procedure), a hemorrhoid or a hemorrhoid correction procedure, a cancer, a sexually transmitted infection, an anal fissure, a muscle spasm (e.g., proctalgia fugax and/or levator syndrome), an anal fistula, a perianal hematoma, a rectal ulcer (e.g., solitary rectal ulcer syndrome), a thrombosis (e.g., a thrombosis hemorrhoid), tenesmus, inflammatory bowel disease, proctitis, a perineal, perianal or perirectal abscess, fecal impaction, rectal prolapse, abdominal pain, labial pain, perineal pain, pain resulting from fertility treatments (e.g., injection site pain, bloating, sensitivity), Bartholinitis, post-surgical pains (e.g., pain resulting from hysterectomy, pain resulting from Bartholin marsupialization, or pain resulting from vaginal tightening due to, e.g., vaginoplasty, perineoplasty, labia majora plasty, labiaplasty, hymenoplasty, or vulvar lipoplasty), pain related to endometriosis, plastic surgeries, post-D&C procedure, post-harvesting of eggs for freezing, lower back pain, hemorrhoids, gender reassignment surgeries, yeast infections, pain from Bartholin cyst, marsupialization of Bartholin cyst, surgical drainage of Bartholin cyst, pain and itching related to menopause, pain and itching related to vulvar cancer, pain associated with sex, pain and itching associated with sexually transmitted disease, vaginosis, pain and abdominal swelling associated with menstrual cycles, bladder inflammation, interstitial cystitis, cystitis, pain related to urinary tract infections, pelvic inflammatory disease, pain and/or abdominal swelling related to pelvic or abdominal adhesions, pain and/or abdominal swelling related to ovarian cysts, pain and/or abdominal swelling related to uterine fibroids, pain and/or abdominal swelling related to tumors, pain and/or abdominal swelling related to kidney stones, pain and/or abdominal swelling related to PMS, pain and/or abdominal swelling related to vulvodynia, and/or pain and abdominal swelling related to adenomyosis.

14. The method ofclaim 13, wherein the pain is abdominal or vaginal pain.

15. The method ofclaim 14, wherein the abdominal or vaginal pain is associated with child birth.

16. The method ofclaim 14, wherein the abdominal or vaginal pain is associated with a cesarean section procedure.

17. The method ofclaim 14, wherein the abdominal pain is associated with a vasectomy procedure.

19. The method ofclaim 14, wherein the abdominal pain is associated with a hernia repair procedure.

20. The method ofclaim 14, wherein the abdominal and/or vaginal pain is associated with an episiotomy correction procedure.

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